Philadelphia Flyers chairman Ed Snider on Saturday strongly denied an article in the Philadelphia Daily News that said he had “soured” on collective bargaining negotiations and is no longer a supporter of NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.

The story also said that Snider had aligned with moderate owners to try to bring an end to the lockout. Snider is the NHL’s longest-serving governor and serves on the executive committee of the Board of Governors, according to the report.

Philadelphia Flyers chairman Ed Snider on Saturday strongly denied a report that said he had “soured” on collective bargaining negotiations and is no longer a supporter of NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. (AP Photo)

Sources told CSNPhilly.com that Snider is not upset with Bettman but rather “frustrated” with NHL Players’ Association executive director Donald Fehr’s tactics in negotiations.

Snider released a statement Saturday afternoon, saying:

"An article appearing in today's Philadelphia Daily News is absolutely erroneous. I am a solid supporter of National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman and the League in this unfortunate situation. Like all fans, players, owners and League officials, I am extremely hopeful that an agreement can be reached and we can eventually be playing hockey again soon. League rules prevent me and all owners from making any comments on the labor negotiations. I will continue to honor that and not make any further comments."

Frank Seravalli, the Flyers beat writer who wrote the story, tweeted that “I continue to stand by my reporting in today’s paper. End of story.”

Saturday marked the 63rd day of the lockout. Talks are tentatively scheduled to resume Monday.